Semi-Puffed

The catbird activity has been increasing the past few days with more displays of aggression.  To a human, it all looks quite silly - a sleek gray bird suddenly puffing up to twice its usual size, head thrown skyward.  Apparently it's fearsome to other catbirds, or at least mildly off-putting.  Although the catbirds talk a lot of smack to each other and engage in chases around the garden, I've never seen them make actual physical contact.  They delight me.  I wish the light had been different when I took this, but it's good enough for today.

Things are perking along in my garden with the milkweed now a few inches above ground and the ranunculus I planted recently (from seed) also poking out of the ground.  The phlox, bee balm, salvia, rudbeckia and echinacea are all growing - it feels like seeing old friends after the long winter.  I will probably make a trip to the local farm for some annual plants soon, maybe some hanging baskets of pansies.  

I downloaded and reviewed the schedule for this Saturday's horse show.  They will have 4 arenas running simultaneously including one each of Hunters and Jumpers.  I read up on the differences between the two so that I can try to get the right kinds of shots.  I'm keen to photograph horses on the hurdles as that is a type of photography I really enjoy and find challenging (in the best way).  

Tomorrow I'm meeting up with my birder friends for a walk on the same trail we walked last week - will be interesting to see how many birds we find as migration is definitely cranking up.  Today in the yard I head several different warbler species.  This is definitely helping me to manage my mental health right now.  Nature therapy.

xoxo
Debbi